Breast Cancer Could Be Linked to Gum Disease

Posted on 11/10/2018 by Todd Jorgenson

Getting diagnosed with breast cancer is devastating news. Like any form of cancer, the earlier it is caught, the easier it is to treat and get a successful outcome. It is important to remain diligent in the detection of breast cancer. To do that, it is also important to understand what the risk factors for breast cancer are.

Family history and other dancer in the body are some things that could signal a potential problem. Gum disease is another. The problem is that most people do not know about the relationship between gum disease and breast cancer.

Linking the Two

Gum disease is the result of bacteria that grow in the mouth. Good oral hygiene habits can eliminate the bacteria and is the best way to prevent gum disease, but it is not something that everyone practices. Even if they do have a good oral hygiene routine, the bacteria can still grow and create problems.

Many people may not realize that if the bacteria are in the mouth, it can end up in the blood stream. They do not realize that blood flows throughout the body and just because you don't see it, does not mean it is not in the mouth as well. If the bacteria from gum disease gets into the bloodstream, it can reach every other part of the body and that includes the breast tissue. That is one way to link breast cancer to gum disease.

Gum Disease and Cancer

Research has shown a link between gum disease and other forms of cancer, including lung and pancreatic cancer. The infection in the gum spreads and ends up infecting the tissue in these organs. That infection can cause the spread of cancer cells in those organs.

Research shows that post-menopausal women have a higher risk of breast cancer if they suffer from gum disease. Just like the other organs affected by gum disease, the breast tissue is also susceptible to the bacteria that comes from gum disease.

Preventing breast cancer requires early detection. If you have gum disease, know that you are at a higher risk for breast cancer and take steps to protect yourself.

For more information about this and other oral health subjects, contact the dental professionals at our offices.